LING6509 Research Design in (Applied) Linguistics

Offered By	School of Language Studies
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Linguistics
Offered in	First Semester, 2009 and First Semester, 2010
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	Research Design in (Applied) Linguistics (LING6509) is important for anyone who wants to undertake research in applied linguistics or linguistics. It is an introductory course designed to enable students to acquire an understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methods used in linguistics and applied linguistics. It provides students with the basic skills for carrying out their research. Issues covered will include collecting, describing and interpreting data and reporting research findings. When discussing quantitative approaches (statistics), emphasis will be on the conceptual aspects of such procedures rather than on mechanical arithmetic aspects. Students will be given practical experience in the use of computers for statistical analysis. Research Design in (Applied) Linguistics (LING6509) can be undertaken either as a single course or as a compulsory course towards the Master of Applied Linguistics. It counts as an elective towards the Graduate Diploma in Applied Linguistics, Graduate Diploma of Linguistics or the Master of Arts (Linguistics). This course is compulsory for graduate students who wish to undertake further research (thesis or sub-thesis) in any field of applied linguistics. It is recommended for graduate students who wish to undertake further research in linguistics. Students should consult with the convenor of Linguistics or Applied Linguistics or their potential supervisor as to whether or not they are required to take the course.
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the expectations of the course, students should be able to Work in a group to critically compare and discriminate between different research methodologies in linguistics and applied linguistics. Critically assess the methodology (qualitative or quantitative) of a research project within your own discipline area. Critically assess the appropriateness of various methodological approaches in published applied linguistics articles. Carry out descriptive and statistical (quantitative) analysis of small data sets. Design, carry out and present (in both a written and oral format) a small project related to your own research interests.
Indicative Assessment	Online discussion (1000 words + 5 best) (25%), descriptive analysis assignment (10%), statistical analysis assignment (20%) and 2500-3000-word small research project (45%)
Workload	A 2-hour lecture and a 1-hour tutorial each week
Course Classification(s)	TransitionalTransitional courses are designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and learning achievements, which provide for the acquisition of generic skills; or an informed understanding of contemporary issues; or fundamental knowledge for transition to Advanced or Specialist courses.
Areas of Interest	Linguistics and Applied Linguistics
Assumed Knowledge and Required Skills	This course introduces graduate students to research methodologies in applied linguistics and linguistics. Students are not required to have completed any prior course before enrolling in this course. However, students will find the course most beneficial if they are currently engaged in their own research project.
Prescribed Texts	Rasinger, S. (2008) Quantitative Research in Linguistics. London: Continuum.
Preliminary Reading	Nunan, D (1992) Research Methods in Language Learning. Cambridge: CUP
Indicative Reading List	Nunan, David 1992. Research Methods in Language Learning. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Johnstone, B 2000. Qualitative Methods in Sociolinguistics. OUP: Oxford. Johnson, D. 1992. Approaches to research in second language learning. New York: Longman. Students will be given a full reading list at the beginning of the semester.
Technology Requirements	Other than normal access to WebCT, no special equipment is required to access materials to complete the course. Students will be taught how to use a statistical package (SPSS). SPSS is available in all computer labs at the ANU.
Programs	Graduate Certificate in Applied Japanese Linguistics, Master of Applied Linguistics, and Master of Linguistics
Academic Contact	Dr Johanna Rendle-Short

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.